Thomas Henry

author

Thomas Henry

1734–1816

An 18th-century Welsh-born apothecary and chemist, he helped shape scientific life in Manchester and became known for making magnesia more widely available. His work connected medicine, practical chemistry, and the lively culture of learned societies.

1 Audiobook

Experiments and Observations on the Following Subjects 1. On the preparation, calcination, and medicinal uses of Magnesia Alba. 2. On the solvent qualities of calcined Magnesia. 3. On the variety in the solvent powers of quick-lime, when used in different quantities. 4. On various absorbents, as promoting or retarding putrefaction. 5. On the comparative antiseptic powers of vegetable infusions prepared with lime, &c. 6. On the sweetening properties of fixed air.

Experiments and Observations on the Following Subjects 1. On the preparation, calcination, and medicinal uses of Magnesia Alba. 2. On the solvent qualities of calcined Magnesia. 3. On the variety in the solvent powers of quick-lime, when used in different quantities. 4. On various absorbents, as promoting or retarding putrefaction. 5. On the comparative antiseptic powers of vegetable infusions prepared with lime, &c. 6. On the sweetening properties of fixed air.

by Thomas Henry

About the author

Born in Wrexham in 1734, he trained as a surgeon-apothecary before building his career in Manchester. There he became known as a physician and chemist with a gift for practical work, and he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1775.

He is often remembered for his work on magnesia alba, which helped make an important remedy more accessible, and for publishing on chemistry and medicine. He was also one of the founding figures of the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society, showing how closely his scientific interests were tied to the wider intellectual life of his city.

His influence continued through both family and reputation: he was the father of chemist William Henry, later known for Henry's law. Thomas Henry died in Manchester in 1816, leaving behind a career that joined medical practice with the practical side of Enlightenment science.